Studying abroad is an invaluable method to enrich and expand your academic degree. Whether your objective is to supplement your academic work, explore a new area of study, have a spectacular experience, or all of the above, studying abroad is unquestionably a life-changing investment with long-term returns. I use the term “investment” deliberately since studying abroad isn’t inexpensive. Financial obligations may be a significant roadblock in the way of studying abroad, and without proper preparation, the price tag may prevent your goal from becoming a reality.
Instead of being discouraged by your financial difficulties, see abroad education as a chance to grow and ‘be creative’ with your financial management and juggling skills. Read on to find out how to stretch your pound or dollar further; here are six travel tricks to help you study abroad on a shoestring budget.
- Bring a mess kit with you.
Bringing your own Tupperware with you to a restaurant for supper or lunch will enable you to preserve leftovers and enjoy them as a later meal, increasing the average meal from one to two. Furthermore, if you go exploring, you can use your Tupperware as a receptacle for a packed lunch, avoiding the inflated prices of that golden cafe at the end of the trail). Having your own plastic container, fork, knife, and spoon may help you avoid the exorbitant expenses of dining out whenever possible.
- Going away over the weekend? Make a reservation for a night bus or flight.
Take advantage of every chance to save money by combining travel and lodging expenditures. You may seem unkempt when you arrive at your location, but your pocketbook will appreciate you for being thrifty.
- Bring a water bottle with you.
Reduce your plastic use and save money on pricey bottled water to help the environment and free up some cash in your pocket. There’s so much to like.
- Always, always, ask for a student discount
Whether you haven’t forgotten your university ID card, ask everywhere you go if they can trim a few dollars/kuai/euros/yen/etc. off the admission or sales price. Student discounts may be available in cafés, restaurants, museums, clothing shops, and other establishments; however, you never know unless you ask.
- Learn all there is to do for free in your new city.
Learn about free events in your new home, in addition to reduced admission prices for students. On certain days of the week, certain museums will provide free entrance. You may be able to get free chocolate factory tours or free late-afternoon admission to a historic park. Your best option for uncovering these cheap hidden jewels in your new location is to do some research online and ask the locals.
- Watch out for the costly beer.
Yes, you read it correctly. Your wallet is whimpering in fear while you’re daydreaming about long evenings spent at the pub or local watering hole. Now, pay attention to what I’m saying. I’m not suggesting you don’t drink at all, but you should keep your nights out and overall alcohol consumption to a minimum. After all, don’t you want to remember all the pleasure you had with your money?